OccupyMaine goes to court to remain in Lincoln Park

PORTLAND, Maine — OccupyMaine demonstrators who’ve camped out in Portland’s Lincoln Park since October are making their case to a state judge.

Oral arguments and testimony began Tuesday in Cumberland County Superior Court, where the group is trying to prevent its removal from the park.

Members testified that the park serves as a public symbol and helps spread their message protesting economic disparity and corporate greed.

Malory Shaughnessy, who participates in Occupy events but does not sleep in the park, said the park’s “tent city” conjures up images of the “Hooverville” shanty towns that were built by homeless people during the Great Depression.

The city, which told campers to leave on Dec. 15, has raised concerns over disturbances and sanitation at the park.